CH.3

The light in the hall dimmed, leaving only a soft glow emanating from the Grimoire on the pedestal. The air was thick with anticipation, the elders leaning forward slightly in their seats, their eyes fixed on the dais. Ryuji could feel the pulse of energy still lingering in the air, like the last echoes of a distant thunderstorm. The connection had been made, but what—or who—had answered his call?

Slowly, cautiously, Ryuji looked down at the Grimoire. The pages had settled, and from within the book, two distinct forms began to materialize, their shapes gradually becoming clearer. He could scarcely believe what he was seeing—two small Pokémon, side by side, emerging from the light as if stepping out of a dream.

One was a Deino, its dark, scaled body a deep navy blue, with a mane of black fur covering its face and obscuring its eyes. The other was an Axew, its small, tusked face looking up at Ryuji with a fierce determination, its greenish-grey body slightly trembling with the energy of its own emergence.

The hall was silent, the elders staring in stunned disbelief. Deino and Axew stood on the pedestal, their gazes locked on Ryuji, as if they already recognized him as their own. The realization struck Ryuji like a bolt of lightning—he hadn't just summoned a Guardian Pokémon; he had summoned two.

Elder Hiroshi was the first to speak, his voice tinged with awe. "Two… twin Guardians," he murmured, his eyes wide. "This is… unheard of."

The other elders exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of shock and confusion. Ryuji could hardly process it himself. He knew from his studies, from the lore he had absorbed, that almost all Grimoire possessors were granted only one Guardian Pokémon in their lifetime. These Pokémon were not merely companions; they were protectors, beings linked to their summoner in a way that went beyond the physical realm. To have two was not just rare—it was legendary, the stuff of ancient tales.

As the initial shock began to fade, Ryuji felt a stirring within him, something deep and intrinsic, as if a hidden door had been unlocked. The connection he felt with Deino and Axew was not just one of loyalty or companionship—it was as if they were extensions of himself, as if they were both part of his soul, two halves of a whole.

"Twinstar…" Ryuji whispered the word, though he wasn't sure where it had come from. It was a name, a concept that seemed to rise from the depths of his new identity, something that resonated with the core of who he was—or had become. One body, two souls. It was a power, a skill, that allowed him to command two Guardian Beasts where others had only one.

The other elders exchanged bewildered glances, clearly uncertain of what to make of the situation. They had expected him to summon a single Guardian Beast, as was tradition. The presence of two Pokémon, both seemingly bonded to him, was something none of them had anticipated.

Ryuji himself was just as bewildered. The presence of two Guardians, the bond he felt with both Deino and Axew, was something new, something that had no precedent in the clan's history.

Elder Hiroshi stepped forward, his expression one of cautious concern. "Ryuji, do you... understand what has happened here? Do you feel a connection with both of these Pokémon?"

Ryuji looked down at the two Pokémon at his feet, still absorbing the reality of the situation. Deino and Axew were not just powerful in their own right—they were symbols of something extraordinary, something that went beyond the clan's understanding. He could feel it—the connection was deep, binding, as if both of these creatures were part of him, linked not just to his body but to his very soul.

"I... I feel it," Ryuji replied slowly, his voice tinged with awe. "It's like they're both... connected to me. As if they're meant to be here."

The elders murmured among themselves, clearly unsettled by the revelation. Elder Hiroshi turned to the others, his expression troubled. "This is beyond our knowledge. Never before has anyone in our clan summoned two Guardian Beasts at once. We will need to consult the ancient texts, seek guidance from our ancestors. This... this is unprecedented."

Ryuji stood there, feeling the weight of their uncertainty. They didn't know what had happened any more than he did. Despite the confusion, despite the lack of understanding, he felt a strange sense of calm. This connection, this bond, felt right. It was as if he had been chosen for something greater, something that even the elders couldn't comprehend.

Deino nudged his leg gently, and Axew looked up at him with a determined gaze. They were ready to stand by his side, to fight for him, to protect him. In that moment, Ryuji felt a surge of determination rise within him. He wasn't alone in this world—he had these two powerful beings with him, two Guardians who were more than just allies; they were part of him.

Elder Hiroshi finally turned back to Ryuji, his expression a mix of concern and respect. "Ryuji, this is a situation we have never encountered before. We will need time to understand what has happened here, to seek out the wisdom of the past. But for now, you must take care of these Pokémon, strengthen the bond you feel with them. They are clearly meant to be with you, even if we do not fully understand why."

Ryuji nodded, feeling the weight of the elder's words. He had been given something extraordinary, something that would define his path in this world. But it also meant that his every action, every decision, would carry far-reaching consequences.

"I will," Ryuji promised, his voice firm and resolute. "I will honor this bond, and I will protect them as they protect me."

Elder Hiroshi nodded slowly. "Then your ceremony is complete, Ryuji. You are now bound to these Guardians, and your path as a member of the Hiryū Clan begins in earnest. We will continue to seek answers, but in the meantime, trust in the bond you have formed."

The other elders echoed the sentiment, their voices filled with a mixture of uncertainty and reverence. Ryuji rose to his feet, Deino and Axew at his side, and bowed deeply to the elders, acknowledging their authority and the responsibility he had accepted.

As he straightened, the weight of the moment settled over him like a cloak. He was no longer Cleo. He was Ryuji, heir to the Hiryū Clan, now bound to two Guardian Beasts in a way that had never been seen before. His journey had truly begun, and with Deino and Axew by his side.

As the ceremony concluded and the elders began to disperse, Ryuji remained on the dais, his mind still processing everything that had just occurred. Deino and Axew stood by his side, their presence a comforting reminder that he was no longer alone in this strange new world. But as he gazed at his twin Guardians, a new thought crossed his mind—a subtle sense of something more, something deeper within him.

He had whispered the word "Twinstar" earlier, and now that the ceremony was over, he could feel the concept solidifying in his mind. It wasn't just a name or a title—it was a skill, an inherent ability that had awakened with the summoning of his twin Guardians. He could sense its presence, like a dormant power waiting to be understood.

Curious, Ryuji focused inward, allowing his thoughts to settle on this newfound skill. As he did, a faint shimmering appeared before his eyes, gradually forming into a translucent screen—a status page, almost like the interface of a game, but more tangible, more real. The skill "Twinstar" was listed at the top, its description clear:

Ryuji focused inward, allowing his thoughts to settle on this newfound skill. As he did, a faint shimmering appeared before his eyes, gradually forming into a translucent screen—a status page, almost like the interface of a game, but more tangible, more real. The details of his current abilities and status were laid out before him, offering a clear view of who he had become in this new world.

===

Status Page

Name: Ryuji Hiryū

Age: 15

Race: Human

Grimoire: Bronze - Beginner

Summoner Rank: Apprentice - Beginner

Inherent Skills:

Twinstar (Rank 1): It grants the bearer the ability to bond with multiple Guardians, a feat that defies the natural order and bends the very fabric of destiny. The true nature of this power is shrouded in mystery, with its full potential known only to those who dare to walk a path fraught with untold challenges and unparalleled strength.

Effect 1: Inspect – Grants the user the ability to view detailed information about anything they focus on. This includes attributes such as level, type, abilities, skills, and strengths, as well as the nature of any connections or bonds.

Effect 2: Conceal – Enables the user to mask the true nature and capabilities of anything they choose. This concealment can hide strengths, abilities, and even identities, making it difficult for others to assess or understand the concealed object's true essence.

Guardian Beasts:

Deino: Normal-Rank 1, Dark/Dragon Type

Axew: Normal-Rank 1, Dragon Type

===

Ryuji focused inward, allowing his thoughts to settle on this newfound skill. As he did, a faint shimmering appeared before his eyes, gradually forming into a translucent screen—a status page, almost like the interface of a game, but more tangible, more real. The details of his current abilities and status were laid out before him, offering a clear view of who he had become in this new world.

The status page was comprehensive, giving Ryuji a clear understanding of his current situation and the abilities at his disposal. His rank as an "Apprentice - Beginner" was a reminder that, despite the power he now held, he was still at the very start of his journey. The Twinstar skill stood out, highlighted as a unique and rare ability, emphasizing the significance of what had happened during the ceremony.

Ryuji couldn't help but marvel at the detailed information provided by the "Inspect" effect of the Twinstar skill. It allowed him to see everything about his Guardians, but it also offered the potential to understand any Pokémon he encountered—whether they were contracted to him, owned by others, or wild. This broad scope made the skill even more valuable, giving him insight into the abilities and bond strength of any Pokémon he might come across.

Next, Ryuji focused on the "Conceal" effect. While he hadn't used it yet, the description made its potential clear. Being able to mask the true nature of Deino, Axew, and any other Pokémon he might contract could be a powerful tool, especially if others were to discover the rarity of his bond. It would allow him to keep their full capabilities hidden until the moment he chose to reveal them, a strategic advantage in a world where power and knowledge were closely guarded.

After taking a moment to absorb all this information, Ryuji decided to use "Inspect" on his two Guardian Pokémon, starting with Deino. As he focused on the small, dark-scaled Pokémon, the status page updated, displaying detailed information:

===

Deino

Type: Dark/Dragon

Level: Normal-Rank 1

Ability: Hustle – Boosts the power of physical moves, but lowers accuracy. 

Moves: Tackle, Dragon Rage, Bite

Bond Strength: Initial

===

The information was detailed and precise, allowing Ryuji to understand Deino's current capabilities and what it could become in the future. The "Hustle" ability, while powerful, also came with its drawbacks—something Ryuji would need to consider as they trained together.

Next, Ryuji turned his attention to Axew and activated "Inspect":

===

Axew

Type: Dragon

Level: Normal-Rank 1

Ability: Mold Breaker – Allows moves to bypass the target's abilities

Moves: Scratch, Dragon Rage, Leer

Bond Strength: Initial 

===

The status page for Axew confirmed what Ryuji had already suspected—both of his Guardians had incredible potential, and it was up to him to help them realize it. The "Mold Breaker" ability was particularly intriguing, as it would allow Axew to counter opponents who relied on defensive strategies, making it a valuable asset in battles where tactics were crucial.

With the information from the Grimoire and the detailed status provided by "Inspect," Ryuji could see the full picture of his Guardians' potential. It wasn't just about their current strength but about the paths they could take as they grew stronger together. He also understood the importance of the "Conceal" effect—while the power of Deino and Axew was impressive, keeping their true abilities hidden could give him a strategic advantage in the future.

Ryuji closed the status page, feeling a sense of clarity and resolve. He had been given extraordinary abilities and two powerful Guardians, and now it was up to him to guide them, to grow alongside them, and to ensure that they reached their full potential.

As he stood there, processing everything, his gaze drifted into the distance, his mind swirling with thoughts of what lay ahead. The room around him seemed to fade away as he became lost in the possibilities and challenges that awaited him. The weight of his newfound power, the mysteries of the Twinstar skill, and the uncertain future pressed down on him, causing him to sink deeper into his own thoughts.

"Ryuji!" The sharp voice of Elder Hiroshi cut through the haze, snapping him back to reality. The elder's stern expression softened slightly as he saw the dazed look on Ryuji's face. "You must focus, young one. This is just the beginning. There is much to learn, and even more to accomplish."

Ryuji blinked, his surroundings coming back into focus. He realized he had been standing there, staring into nothing, while the elders waited. Embarrassed, he straightened his posture and nodded respectfully to the elder.

"Forgive me, Elder Hiroshi," Ryuji said, his voice steadying as he regained his composure. "I was just... thinking about what lies ahead."

Elder Hiroshi gave a small nod of understanding. "It's only natural to feel overwhelmed. But remember, you must stay grounded in the present if you are to navigate the path before you."

Ryuji glanced down at the Grimoire still in his hand, the weight of it a constant reminder of the responsibilities he now carried. With a deep breath, he focused his thoughts, summoning the knowledge that had been imparted to him during the ceremony. He raised his free hand over the Grimoire and whispered a word of dismissal.

The Grimoire responded immediately, its glowing symbols dimming as it began to dissolve into shimmering particles of light. Within moments, it vanished completely, returning to its dormant state within Ryuji's soul, ready to be summoned again when needed.

In the days that followed his bonding ceremony, Ryuji found himself settling into a new rhythm of life within the clan. Each morning, he would rise early, the soft light of dawn filtering through his window, signaling the start of another day of training. Deino and Axew were always close by, eager to begin the day alongside him.

The mornings began with simple yet crucial exercises designed to strengthen the bond between Ryuji and his Guardians. They would run together through the lush fields surrounding the clan's estate, the cool morning air invigorating as they leaped over obstacles and weaved through trees. These runs were more than just physical conditioning; they were moments of connection, where Ryuji learned to move in harmony with his Pokémon, feeling the subtle shifts in their energy and understanding their silent communication.

As the day progressed, the training grew more intense. Under the guidance of Elder Hiroshi and other seasoned clan members, Ryuji practiced battle strategies, learning the art of commanding his Guardians with precision and clarity. In mock battles, he tested Deino's raw strength and Axew's agility, slowly mastering the intricacies of their abilities. With each session, Ryuji became more attuned to their strengths and weaknesses, adjusting his tactics to suit their unique styles.

Evenings brought a different kind of training. In the quiet of the clan's meditation garden, Ryuji would sit cross-legged with Deino and Axew by his side, the three of them enveloped in a tranquil silence. It was during these meditative sessions that Ryuji truly began to understand the depth of his bond with his Guardians. He could sense their thoughts, feel their emotions, and understand their needs without the need for words. The connection they shared grew stronger, becoming an unspoken trust that would be vital in the challenges ahead.

One evening, as the sky was painted in hues of orange and pink, Ryuji found himself alone with Elder Hiroshi after a particularly grueling training session. The elder, sensing that something was on Ryuji's mind, approached him quietly.

"You're progressing well, Ryuji," Elder Hiroshi said, his voice gentle. "But I can tell there's something else you wish to ask."

Ryuji hesitated, then nodded. He had been wondering about something for weeks but had never found the right moment to bring it up. Now, with the academy looming on the horizon and the weight of his new responsibilities growing heavier, the question pressed on his mind more than ever.

"Elder Hiroshi," Ryuji began carefully, "I've been meaning to ask… about my parents. I don't remember much about them, and I was hoping you could tell me where they are, or what happened to them."

The elder's expression grew solemn, and he looked out at the setting sun as if searching for the right words. After a moment, he turned back to Ryuji.

"Your parents were both exceptional summoners, Ryuji," Hiroshi said quietly. "They were deeply respected within the clan and beyond. But… their path took them away from here, on a mission of great importance. It was a journey that required sacrifice and courage, and they left to protect something far greater than themselves."

Ryuji listened intently, his heart heavy with the weight of the elder's words. "Are they… are they still out there?"

Elder Hiroshi paused, then placed a comforting hand on Ryuji's shoulder. "It's difficult to say, Ryuji. The mission they undertook was dangerous, and we've had little contact with them since. But know this: their love for you and their dedication to the clan never wavered. They left to ensure a future for you and for all of us."

Ryuji swallowed hard, processing the information. The mystery of his parents' fate weighed heavily on him, but he also felt a sense of pride. They had left to protect something important, something that might even be connected to the responsibilities he now carried.

"Thank you for telling me, Elder Hiroshi," Ryuji said, his voice quiet but resolute. "I'll do my best to live up to their legacy."

The elder smiled faintly, a look of approval in his eyes. "I have no doubt that you will, Ryuji. Your parents would be proud of the summoner you're becoming. Continue to train hard, trust in your Guardians, and you will find your way."

As the weeks passed, Ryuji threw himself into his training with renewed determination. The knowledge that his parents had embarked on a perilous journey fueled his resolve, pushing him to grow stronger with each passing day. Deino and Axew sensed the shift in his spirit, responding with increased vigor and loyalty.

The time soon came for Ryuji to move on to the next phase of his journey: the Pokémon International League's academy for young summoners and trainers. The clan had prepared him well, but Ryuji knew that the academy would present new challenges, new rivals, and new opportunities to prove himself.

On his final day at the clan's training grounds, as the sun began to set, Elder Hiroshi approached Ryuji one last time. Deino and Axew stood beside him, their eyes bright with anticipation.

"You've come far, Ryuji," the elder said, his voice filled with pride. "You're ready for the academy. Remember the lessons you've learned here. Trust in your Guardians, trust in your instincts, and never stop striving to improve."

Ryuji nodded, a determined smile on his face. "I won't forget, Elder Hiroshi. Thank you for everything."

The elder placed a hand on Ryuji's shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "Go forward with confidence, Ryuji. The path ahead will be challenging, but I have no doubt that you will rise to meet it."

As the days of rigorous training continued, Ryuji found himself drawn not only to the physical and mental exercises with his Guardians but also to the wealth of knowledge stored within the clan's vast library. The ancient tomes and documents held secrets that could help him understand Deino and Axew better, and Ryuji knew that mastering his bond with them required more than just physical prowess—it required knowledge.

One evening, after a long day of training, Ryuji decided to spend some time in the library. The sun was setting, casting a warm, golden light through the tall windows as he entered the quiet, serene space. Rows upon rows of books lined the shelves, filled with the wisdom of generations of summoners. The air was thick with the scent of aged paper and ink, a comforting reminder of the history and tradition that surrounded him.

Ryuji approached the section dedicated to Pokémon lore and carefully pulled out a few volumes that seemed relevant. Among them were tomes on dragon-type Pokémon, ancient texts on the nature of Guardian Beasts, and detailed scrolls about the bond between summoners and their Pokémon.

He found a secluded corner, settled into a cushioned chair, and began to read. The first book he opened was an ancient tome detailing the evolution lines and characteristics of various dragon-type Pokémon. As he flipped through the pages, he found the section on Deino.

Deino:

Type: Dark/Dragon

Evolution Line: Deino → Zweilous → Hydreigon

Characteristics: Deino is known for its relentless nature and powerful bite. Despite its blindness, it navigates by biting anything that moves, which often leads to unpredictable behavior. Its evolution into Hydreigon marks its transformation into a fearsome, three-headed dragon, known for its immense strength and destructive capabilities. Deino's potential lies in its ability to grow from a chaotic force into a disciplined, powerful beast, given proper guidance and training.

Ryuji paused, considering what he had learned. Deino's aggressive tendencies made sense now, and he realized that his role was to help channel that raw power into something controlled and precise. Understanding the challenges ahead with Deino's evolution, Ryuji knew he had to be patient and consistent in his training.

Next, Ryuji turned to a document about Axew, eager to learn more about the little dragon with such sharp determination.

Axew:

Type: Dragon

Evolution Line: Axew → Fraxure → Haxorus

Characteristics: Axew is a small but tenacious dragon Pokémon known for its powerful tusks, which it uses to crush berries and cut down obstacles. As it evolves into Haxorus, it becomes a fearsome physical attacker, known for its incredible strength and toughness. Axew's growth is marked by its unwavering determination and strong sense of loyalty. It requires a bond with a summoner who can match its resolve and guide it through its evolution with care and precision.

Reading this, Ryuji felt a surge of pride. Axew's loyalty and determination were already evident in their training sessions, and Ryuji knew that with the right approach, Axew would grow into a formidable force. The key would be nurturing that bond, ensuring that Axew's evolution was guided by trust and mutual respect.

The more Ryuji read, the more he understood the importance of his role in his Guardians' growth. He needed to be more than just a commander in battle; he had to be a mentor, a guide, someone who could help them reach their full potential while maintaining the bond that connected them.

As the evening wore on, Ryuji continued to immerse himself in the knowledge contained within the library's walls. He studied the history of dragon-type Pokémon, the significance of their bond with their summoners, and the strategies used by previous clan members who had successfully raised powerful Guardians. Each piece of information added to his understanding, helping him see the bigger picture of what it meant to be a summoner with Guardians like Deino and Axew.

Finally, as the moon rose high in the sky, Ryuji closed the last tome with a sense of accomplishment. He had gained valuable insights into the nature of his Pokémon and the path they were on. Armed with this knowledge, he felt more prepared to face the challenges ahead.

As he left the library and headed back to his quarters, Ryuji felt a deep sense of connection to the legacy of his clan. The wisdom passed down through the ages was now a part of him, guiding his actions and decisions. Deino and Axew were not just powerful creatures; they were partners in a journey that required both strength and understanding.

The next morning, when Ryuji met Elder Hiroshi for another day of training, he did so with renewed confidence. The elder noticed the change in him immediately.

"You've been studying," Elder Hiroshi remarked, a note of approval in his voice.

"Yes," Ryuji replied, a small smile on his lips. "I wanted to understand Deino and Axew better. The more I know about them, the better I can guide them."

Elder Hiroshi nodded, clearly pleased. "That's the right attitude, Ryuji. Knowledge is just as important as strength. Continue to learn, continue to grow, and you'll become the summoner you're meant to be."